General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR): What Businesses Need to Know in 2025
The General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR), officially Regulation (EU) 2023/988, is now in effect as of December 13, 2024. This regulation replaces the previous Directive 2001/95/EC and introduces stricter safety requirements, particularly for online retailers and economic operators. Businesses operating in the EU must now ensure full compliance to avoid penalties and potential market restrictions. Here are the key changes introduced by GPSR:
1. Expanded Scope and Applicability
The GPSR applies to all consumer products sold within the EU, whether online or offline. It reinforces obligations for manufacturers, importers, distributors, and online marketplaces. Notably:
- It applies to all new products placed on the market from December 13, 2024.
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Products that were already available on the EU market before this date and comply with Directive 2001/95/EC can continue to be sold under Article 51 (Transitional Provisions).
2. Stronger Obligations for Importers
Under Article 19, online marketplaces and e-commerce sellers must provide consumers with clear and easily accessible safety information. Product listings must now include:
- Manufacturer’s / importer's name, trade name, or registered trademark with their postal and electronic address.
- If the manufacturer / importer is outside the EU: Name and contact details of the Authorised Representative (as per Article 16 of GPSR or Article 4(1) of Regulation (EU) 2019/1020).
- Product identification details, including an image, type, and relevant identifiers.
- Safety warnings and compliance information in the language of the country where the product is sold.
This requirement applies to every consumer product covered under GPSR sold via distance selling. GPSR requires a documented risk assessment for each product to identify potential hazards and ensure consumer safety. Download our GPSR Risk Analysis Template for a structured approach to evaluating product safety risks.
3. Increased Responsibilities for Economic Operators
Economic operators, including importers and distributors, now have greater accountability. Responsibilities include:
- Ensuring that products meet safety standards before being placed on the market.
- Verifying that manufacturers outside the EU appoint an Authorised Representative.
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Implementing traceability measures, including proper record-keeping and risk assessment.
4. New Market Surveillance & Enforcement Measures
Authorities now have stronger enforcement powers, including:
- Requiring businesses to remove unsafe products quickly.
- Conducting random compliance checks and audits.
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Issuing hefty fines for non-compliance.
5. Article 51: Transitional Provisions
GPSR includes a transitional clause under Article 51, stating that:
- Products complying with Directive 2001/95/EC and placed on the EU market before December 13, 2024, can continue to be sold.
- These products do not need to meet new GPSR requirements, provided they were legally placed on the market beforehand.
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Used, vintage, and antique items may be exempt, as confirmed by eBay and other platforms, provided they meet previous safety regulations.
6. Steps Businesses Must Take Now
To remain compliant under GPSR, businesses should:
- Review Product Listings: Ensure online listings include all required information under Article 19.
- Appoint an Authorised Representative: Non-EU manufacturers must designate a representative for regulatory compliance.
- Update Product Documentation: Ensure technical files, safety warnings, and testing reports are up to date.
- Implement Traceability Measures: Maintain records of supply chain transactions and compliance verification.
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Monitor Market Surveillance Actions: Stay informed about enforcement trends and adapt quickly to regulatory updates.
7. Conclusion
The General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR) is now in effect, bringing stricter compliance obligations for businesses selling in the EU. Companies must act immediately to meet these new requirements, particularly those selling via e-commerce. Ensuring product safety, proper labeling, and traceability will be critical to continued market access and regulatory compliance.